Why you should travel while you’re a student

Learn more about yourself

The idea of travelling, staying in an unfamiliar place, meeting new people and being out of your comfort zone can sound daunting to anybody. Personally, I see myself as an introvert, and social interactions make me a little anxious, so I need a lot of time in the privacy of my own space. But I like the idea of a challenge and testing my boundaries, so almost every time I travel, I choose to spend my time in social spaces. Allowing myself to get comfortable with the uncomfortable has helped me overcome some fears.

Independence & Confidence

Moving to university means a time for many firsts, but travel brings its own additional challenges! Facing language barriers, being on time for your flights, and other hurdles that travelling can throw at you is a great way of really testing your self-reliance. The first time travelling to a foreign country can be really daunting, so don’t be afraid to start off small or go with friends. Whichever you decide, you will really begin to develop a sense of confidence knowing that you can handle anything thrown your way.

New people and new friends

Hostels usually offer a great bang for your buck. Depending on your place of stay, hostels can provide you with budget-friendly accommodation for your length of stay, along with several social events set up for you to mingle with people from all around the world. If Hostels aren’t your style, you can also meet people through free walking tours (Google this!) or on your excursions.

Student Discounts don’t last forever!

As a student, you can get some fantastic perks. You can get your hand on a student (16-25) railcard which provides discount on train tickets in the UK.

Many places across Europe also provide discount for students for entries into museums, historic sites, events and travel upon presentation of your Student ID (NUS card that has the ISIC symbol). Really take advantage of that student discount while you have it.

You have a little more time on your hands than you think

When you’ve graduated and landed yourself a full-time job, the reality hits: You have more responsibility now, and with responsibility comes some limitations. In most jobs, you can’t just get up and go on a 6-week backpacking adventure, there’s no such thing as summer holidays. It really makes you miss that termly timetable! So, take advantage of the time you have off.

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Travel to get hired

Look like a cultured, global citizen by taking advantage of any travel opportunities you can find. Think about looking into Erasmus programmes at your university, or travel opportunities designed and planned by your school. Most importantly, when you travel, consider blogging it so that future employers can see how travel developed your skills.

Written by Leanne Perry, NTU Alumni (BA Hons Media with Communications)